Photochromic sunglasses

[John M]

Anyone use photochromic sunglasses? If yes, what brand/models? I would ideally like one pair of glasses that can be used across a full range of light conditions. As a contacts wearer, I always use some form of eye protection when riding and do a fair amount of night commuting in the winter.

Thanks for any suggestions.

John

[velobran]

I used to use Specialized photochromatic. Not sure which model though. It was during MTB'ing mostly then tried them on the road a few times. In shady areas, it was actually annoying to me and found it distracting (mostly while MTB'ing) with the varying terrain and the low change in shading. Maybe they'd be more ideal in the wide open road where the light conditions don't change very often or quickly.

[znfdl]

I bit the bullet and had a set of non-prescription transition lenses put in a pair of cycling glasses. I now use one pair of glasses for night and day riding. Everything else is a compromise.

[YiPsan]

I think Transition is the way to go. The photochromic ones from various sunglass manufacturers seem all too dark for night time.

[AntLockyer]

I use Rudy Project with the ImpactX lenses. I think they are the clear or grey. They are perfect for wearing all the time, never get very dark but dark enough for me to race in and I do have sensitive eyes.

[toomanybikes]

I bought a pair in the spring this year.

Grey ones that I can wear at night but darken a lot so good in the middle os a summer day too.

I have just given up on pricey sunglasses and I bought the $55 Ryders ones.

They are comfortable, adjustable and actually ( according to my wife ) look good.

I have worn them all year so far both on and off the bike. In fact I like them so much I have been wondering about getting Rx ones made.

[John M]

I use Rudy Project with the ImpactX lenses. ....

I saw the ImpactX photochromic clear on the Rudy website. Looks like that might work for me. Are yours "clear" enough for night riding?

[AntLockyer]

They are, everything just goes a little browner. If you look at the lens they appear clear when indoors and not being affected by UV.

[dcpdpayne]

Years ago I used Briko's photochromic lenses but always felt that I had to compromise in both super sunny conditions (where they were never dark enough) and during low light (where they were too dark.) I'm sure that the technology has improved, but I never liked them.

[962]

I have some Smith sunglasses I've used for riding and skiing. They weren't too expensive either.

They're called "polarchromic", which could imply both photochromic and polarized, though I think they're just polarized.

The tint is very light—you can see my eyes through the front more easily than through fashion sunglasses—but they are actually really good at blocking light despite my being able to see even at dusk or in dense tree shade.

So polarized is something else you could consider.

[jimi]

I have the Rudy ImpactX Photochromic Red lenses. I like'em especially when the weather is changing (e.g., rain for the AM commute but sunny in the PM). But in the full sunshine or when it's dark, I always seem to pop in other lenses. Wierd thing... the photo red lenses turn blue in the cold.

jimi

[mumbleypeg]

I've been using Julbo USA: Race this year. I ride early a lot and wanted something that would allow me to see. I have been really happy with these. I would say that when they are on I don't think about them, which is great.

[Fritz]

I use Rudy Project with the ImpactX lenses. I think they are the clear or grey. They are perfect for wearing all the time, never get very dark but dark enough for me to race in and I do have sensitive eyes.

Ditto

[thrice]

I went overboard and bought prescription Jawbone's with grey Transtions lenses. The grey lenses may not have enough tint for some but I tend to like a lighter tint anyway. So far they are great for evening rides. Did a couple of 'cross races with them too (in and out of the woods) and have no complaints.

[Blue Jays]

"...So polarized is something else you could consider..."

Polarization introduces a "shift" that is helpful to fishermen to see fish below surface of water. It is also helpful for boaters to reduce annoying shimmer from water.
Polarized lenses are NOT suggested for bicyclists, skiers, or motorcyclists. This essential glare is what allows us to see ice, water, oil, or other reflections about which we should be cautious.
One can have photochromic lenses without them being polarized. Non-polarized lenses also makes it easier to read cyclocomputers and digital watches.

[Saab2000]

Polarization is a mixed blessing but I love it. Flying with it was a major, major mindfuck because the 2" thick windshield is already polarized. I imagine this is what dropping acid looks like.

I have enjoyed using polarization while cycling and skiing and driving. It may cause problems with so-called black ice and whatnot, but so far, no problems and it does reduce glare and eye fatigue.

[VA_MEL]

I use Rudy Project with the ImpactX lenses. I think they are the clear or grey. They are perfect for wearing all the time, never get very dark but dark enough for me to race in and I do have sensitive eyes.

I've been generally happy with these, as well. One word of warning: don't leave them in a super hot car too many times. One of my ImpactX lenses delaminated from excessive heat exposure.

[pdmtong]

I use Rudy Project with the ImpactX lenses. I think they are the clear or grey. They are perfect for wearing all the time, never get very dark but dark enough for me to race in and I do have sensitive eyes.

I have the rydon version...impactX photochromic and polarized ... they do work great. never issues going in/out shadows on the road.
never tried them for mtb

[pdmtong]

Polarization is a mixed blessing but I love it. Flying with it was a major, major mindfuck because the 2" thick windshield is already polarized. I imagine this is what dropping acid looks like.

I have enjoyed using polarization while cycling and skiing and driving. It may cause problems with so-called black ice and whatnot, but so far, no problems and it does reduce glare and eye fatigue.

see my post #23 in this thread

[dpcompt]

Polarization is a mixed blessing but I love it. Flying with it was a major, major mindfuck because the 2" thick windshield is already polarized. I imagine this is what dropping acid looks like.

I have enjoyed using polarization while cycling and skiing and driving. It may cause problems with so-called black ice and whatnot, but soproblems and it does reduce glare and eye fatigue.

i believe in polarized lenses. we ride in the foothills of central california and, we ride from very sunny to shade, and polarized lenses seem to minimize the effect. my glasses are lightly, shaded polarized, with blended tri focals. if you are young, believe me, you'll get there.